THE DAILY ISLAMIC REMINDERS. Yaum Al-Ithnayn, 2nd day of Shăban, 1440, (Monday, 8th April, 2019). THE MONTH OF SHĂBAN AND ITS MERITS. Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem. The Arrival of the Sha’baan moon brings with it numerous blessings. Just as the initiation of rainfall begins with "pitter patter" such blessings reach us in the same accord and fashion.  Just as a farmer prepares for a fruitful harvest by harrowing his acreage so that the soil may readily retain water; in contrast our souls are geared by the presence of such blessings in Sha’baan effectively preparing us for a fruitful and completely advantageous Ramadan. The month of Sha’baan is one of the meritorious months in the Islamic calendar and it is reported in an authentic hadith that the Holy Prophet (sallalLaahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to fast most of this month. Although these fasts are not obligatory, Sha’baan is the month immediately preceding the month of Ramadan, therefore some preparatory measures are suggested by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam) through his sunnah and his practices. Those who are owing in last year's Ramadan should strive to pay off in this month before coming Ramadan which is only few days left that's around 5th May subject to moon sighting. Even if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you can still fast unless if you face difficulties in your pregnancy or a doctor advised you not to fast, in that case you can fast for your previous Ramadan debt even after this coming Ramadan whenever possible. Feeding the poor does not compensate for your missed Ramadan days please unless the elderly who cannot fast again till death or perminent illness people who cannot fast but as soon as they get well must fast their missed Ramadan fastings even if you owe many Ramadan debts, it's for your own good. May ALLAH (Azza wa Jal, The Mighty and The Majestic) aid our efforts to be able to benefit more in these coming months. Aameen.